ASAPHIL Taps World-Class Coach to Lead RP Blu Girls to Greater Heights
By Marlon Bernardino
PhilBoxing.com
Fri, 20 Jun 2025
Coach Steven Figueroa leading the RP Blu Girls in training
Building a World-Class Program
For Coach Steven Figueroa, taking the lead of the RP Blu Girls, the Philippine National Softball Team supported by Cebuana Lhuillier, is about more than preparing athletes for international tournaments. It’s about establishing a culture of excellence built on pride, discipline, and unwavering standards. As head coach, he is visibly energized by what lies ahead for the team in 2025.
“This group has the discipline, the heart, and now, the structure to compete fiercely with the world’s best,” he shares. “ We’re not just preparing for tournaments, we are forging a world-class softball program.”
Unwavering Support: The Role of ASAPHIL and Cebuana Lhuillier
Coach Steven attributes the team's significant upward momentum to the unwavering support from the Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines (ASAPHIL) and its president, Jean Henri Lhuillier, who also leads Cebuana Lhuillier as President and CEO. "What Mr. Lhuillier has done is nothing short of amazing. The girls have everything they need, from equipment to financial support. That level of backing empowers our athletes" Coach Steven shares. Jean Henri Lhuillier has long been a passionate patron of Philippine sports. Through Cebuana Lhuillier Sports, the company’s long-standing advocacy to support and uplift Filipino athletes, he remains fully invested in the RP Blu Girls’ journey.
Jean Henri Lhuillier on Coach Figueroa's Vision
“Coach Steven is a driving force. He doesn't just hone individual talent, he's implementing a system that elevates the entire sport of softball across the country," Lhuillier said. "Under his visionary direction, I am convinced that he can take Philippine softball to even greater heights, setting new benchmarks for success.
A Philosophy of Mindset and Discipline
A former professional baseball player, Coach Steven transitioned into elite coaching with a deep passion for developing women’s softball. His international experience has been vital to the Blu Girls' resurgence. Earlier this year, he led a two-day clinic at Rizal Memorial Stadium alongside fellow coach Skylynne Ellazar, training over 100 athletes and 45 coaches. The clinic focused not just on drills, but also on mental fortitude, technical proficiency, and character development.
“The first thing every young athlete needs is to fall in love with the game,” Coach Steven shares. “Once that happens, everything else becomes a product of discipline.”
His coaching philosophy emphasizes building strong technical foundations—solid base running, clean execution, and relentless practice. But he also makes it clear: the right mindset is crucial. There needs to be a standard for every player who puts on this jersey. Representing the Philippines is a privilege, and that privilege should fuel your drive.”
Every training camp, every pitch, and every team huddle under his leadership is infused with a clear sense of purpose. He recognizes the immense, raw talent of the Blu Girls— athletes who have consistently demonstrated grit, heart, and tenacity. His mission is clear: to ensure their skill is amplified by an absolute conviction in their ability to conquer the world stage.
"We have a very competitive team," he states. "The next step is for them to deeply believe they are capable of winning globally. My philosophy is simple: don't measure yourselves against the world, focus on the consistent effort we make right here, every single day."
Setting the Stage for Global Impact
With Coach Steven Figueroa’s guidance and ASAPHIL’s continued support, the RP Blu Girls are not merely preparing to compete; they are embarking on a mission to forge a legacy of triumph. Their focused training, ambitious goals, and unwavering commitment set the stage for a compelling run in this year's international tournaments. The RP Blu Girls are ready to earn their place among the global elite in Philippine softball and, with every pitch, ignite the spirit of a proud nation.-Marlon Bernardino-
Click here to view a list of other articles written by Marlon Bernardino.
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